Intensive use of hazardous pesticide has led to the death of thousands of sparrows who fed on dead insects from the vegetable fields in Dakatia village situated in Jessore district on the western border region of Bangladesh. Although the land is not suitable for rice cultivation, vegetables like brinjals, pointed gourd, beans, pumpkin, raddish, carrot, cauliflower and cabbage are grown extensively. The use of pesticides is also extensive. Moreover, since the village is on the border with India, several pesticides are smuggled in from the neighbouring country. Ustad, Thidin and Methodrin are some of the hazardous pesticides smuggled in across the border. Reportedly, the brinjal and pointed gourd fields from where the sparrows had eaten insects and died, had been sprayed with Ustad.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.